Imagery is a natural thought process using one or more of the five senses. It is the bridge between the conscious and subconscious, helping to connect the body, mind and spirit. Various forms of imagery (such as guided imagery and integrative imagery) as well as meditation, prayer and relaxation breathing can assist you in relaxation.

Principles

Images form, express and evoke emotions that directly affect physiological response. A person can be taught to suspend negative images to allow for new images that will enhance health and well-being.

Proposed Benefits

Research shows that imagery can help:

• Relax, calm and elevate moods
• Lower blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol
• Speed up healing from surgical wounds
• Elevate immune functioning
• Reduce pain and headache
• Inspire and motivate
• Lower anxiety and depression
• Reduce the craving for food and drugs

Imagery May Help in the Treatment of:

• Anxiety and stress
• Depression
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Immune deficiency
• Preparing for surgery and procedures
• Insomnia
• Musculoskeletal disorders